Research published in the Journal of Clinical Psychopharmacology (2006; 26(6): 661–665) explored the effects of omega-3 fatty acid supplementation on anxiety. This small, double-blind, placebo-controlled study included 24 participants with a history of substance abuse and diagnosed anxiety disorders. Omega-3 fatty acids have also been studied for their role in modulating inflammation, which may be relevant to brain function and mood.
Over a three-month period, participants received either a placebo or a supplement providing the omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA. Anxiety levels were assessed using standardized questionnaires throughout the study.
Subjects receiving the omega-3 supplementation showed progressive reductions in anxiety scores over time, while those in the placebo group did not experience a similar improvement. The findings suggest that EPA and DHA intake may be linked with reduced anxiety symptoms in this population.
